What makes us different? SGT strives to get you off the beaten track so you can have an authentic experience, the opportunity to mingle with the locals. We do not like 'whistle stops' and it is our goal to have guests off of the vehicle exploring as much as possible.

Your SMALL GROUP day trip accommodates from a minimum of 2 guests to a max of just 16 guests per departure. Travel in (dependant on participant numbers) a standard car, MPV/SUV or mini-coach.

All scheduled day trips go out weekly with a minimum of 2 guests per travel date. Also available any day/date for private departures, subject to vehicle and driver/guide availability. Private departures cost will depend on how many in your party/size of vehicle.

Full Day London, FRIDAYS 08:00 - approx 17:00

We begin our day with one of the more colourful local neighborhood antiques markets. Bermondsey's New Caledonian Market is commonly called the "Thieves Market" because, until 1995, this was one of the few markets in London that still fell under the ancient law of "market ouvert." This allowed any items sold between sunrise and sunset to not be questioned, so stolen goods could be sold and good title would pass to the purchaser. Nowadays this remains one of London’s more interesting markets, full of character traders, from cockney barrow boys to posh pensioners. The merchandise is mostly bric-​​à-​​brac - dishes, decanters, teapots, silver service, figurines, cutlery and some old toys for good measure.

The crown jewel of this part of London, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre is a worthy inclusion in our day. It is a stunning place, built using 'antique' Elizabethan building techniques, constructed entirely of English oak with mortise and tenon joints, this is the first and only thatch roof building permitted to be built in London since the Great Fire in 1666. We recommend returning to see a play here, a wonderful and unique theatre experience! Enjoy some free time in the Exhibition, a guided tour of the theatre itself followed by a short walking tour with your guide through the neighborhood of Bankside.

The 'Las Vegas' of its time, delve into this area well known to Shakespeare and later Charles Dickens. Our walk will conclude at Borough Market, one of London's largest and oldest food markets, where you'll have free time for lunch. There is an amazing variety of choice - traditional British specialties, meat and vegetarian sandwiches, salads, smoothies, organic fruits, veg, breads, cheeses, sweets; a true selection of foods from around the world.

As a nice contrast to the neighborhood 'Thieves' Market, Gray's Antiques is a high end market right in the heart of the Bond Street shopping district. Here, find a wide variety of fine jewelry, watches, artwork & classical antiques with a few stalls of military memorabilia and vintage clothing. The centre is home to over 200 dealers on 2 levels, split into 2 buildings so lots to explore. Interestingly, a lost tributary of the River Tyburn was found during a refurbishment and has been integrated into the design as a relaxing coy pond.

Our final market of the day is Alfie's Market, a sprawling extravaganza of mint condition vintage gowns, shoes, jewelry, military memorabilia and rooms and rooms of interesting mid-Century furniture and lighting fixtures. There seems to be everything here from rotary telephones to first edition books! For over 30 years Alfies Antique Market has attracted collectors, designers and even a few celebrities lured by its unique 'bohemian chic' atmosphere and abundant opportunities to find some genuine treasures. There is a roof-top café here for those wishing an afternoon snack or a tea break too.

Our day concludes at Alfie's Market. Guests have the option to depart for Waterloo station at 5pm with their tour guide or extend their stay independently at Alfie's (10 minute walk to Marylebone station/Bakerloo line.)

Weekly scheduled departures, subject to availability. Available for private departures day/date of your choice, subject to vehicle/driver/guide availability, for the appropriate private tour cost. Cost for private departures based on number in the party/size of the vehicle.

Oft imitated, never duplicated! This is an original SGT itinerary, property of Special Group Tours and to be used only with express permission/in conjunction with SGT.

We are happy to assist with your overall holiday plans to UK/Europe if you wish. Please ask us for details. SGT is at your service!

SGT DAY TRIP SCHEDULE

All scheduled day trips go out weekly with a minimum of 2 guests per travel date. Also available any day/date for private departures, subject to vehicle and driver/guide availability. Private departures cost will depend on how many in your party/size of vehicle.

The Special Group Tours Advantage is our unique and intimate understanding of what you expect traveling in the UK and Europe. We have not only visited but have spent many years living in and loving the cultures you will experience down the ‘B’ Roads and off the beaten track. We have worked with local suppliers and our guide/companion team for over a decade, creating unique special interest itineraries. Special Group Tours offers our “insider” knowledge to you.

The SGT Small Group Touring Concept is traveling with just 4 - 14 guests per departure. It is our aim to introduce you to the 'real' country and its people, not just ticking the boxes of a standardized route and treating you as an individual and not a number. Our concept allows for a leisurely touring pace and flexibility to get off the beaten track to discover hidden gems. Of course you'll see the major sites but so much more too!

At Special Group Tours, it is our priority that you have the most enjoyable holiday possible. You deserve it!